Human rights in Paraguay

When Paraguay adopted its 1992 Constitution, it created a new foundation as a democratic republic. The constitution includes a wide range of human rights protections, including rights to life, liberty, equality, due process, freedom of expression, and rights for women and Indigenous communities. In addition to the constitution, Paraguay has passed other laws aiming to protect human rights. However, notably, same sex marriage and abortion is illegal in Paraguay.

While Paraguay generally does have a large legal framework that protects human rights, these protections are not always respected in everyday life. Women experience gender-based violence, workplace discrimination, and limited access to reproductive health and justice. Indigenous communities continue to lose land, face discrimination, and face weak enforcement of their collective rights. Furthermore, police corruption, excessive force, arbitrary arrest, and unsafe prisons undermine Paraguay's guarantees of liberty and due process. Same sex relations are not criminalized, but LGBTQ individuals still face widespread discrimination. Workers legally have the right to unionize, but many still endure exploitative labor practice, like child labor and unsafe conditions. Additionally, the government fails to meaningfully include and provide support for persons with disabilities.

Freedom House reports that corruption can be found among some elected officials, police, and judges. These problems may weaken the government’s ability to effectively implement and enforce laws. This could contribute to the gap between what the law promises and what people actually experience.